Hornets hire Spurs assistant James Borrego as head coach

The Charlotte Hornets have hired San Antonio Spurs assistant James Borrego as their new head coach, the NBA team announced on Thursday.

Borrego spent two separate stints under Gregg Popovich in San Antonio (2003-10, 2015-18) and was also the interim coach for the Orlando Magic in 2015, owning a 10-20 record.

The 40-year-old turned down the head coaching job at his alma mater New Mexico last year in hope of becoming an NBA head coach.

Borrego, who replaces Steve Clifford, said: "I'm very excited to serve as the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets.

"I want to thank Michael Jordan, Mitch Kupchak and Buzz Peterson for this opportunity. I'm confident in the coaching foundation I've had the opportunity to develop during my time in San Antonio, Orlando and New Orleans, and I cannot wait to get to work in Charlotte."

The Hornets finished with a 36-46 record in 2017-18 as they missed the playoffs.

"We are thrilled to have James join our franchise," Hornets general manager Mitch Kupchak said in a release.

"He brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record of player development from his time as a coach in San Antonio, New Orleans and Orlando.

"He has been a part of teams that have ascended to the highest levels of success in our league and understands what it takes to win in the NBA. James is considered one of the NBA's most well-regarded assistant coaches and it's great to have him as part of our team. I look forward to working with him in the years to come."